Daniel Ricciardo Reflects on Max Verstappen’s Success in Candid Interview

Daniel Ricciardo has opened up about his former teammate, Max Verstappen, expressing pride in the Dutch driver’s achievements in Formula 1. In a rare interview, Ricciardo acknowledged Verstappen’s impressive career, particularly highlighting his status as a four-time world champion. The two drivers were teammates at Red Bull, and their relationship has evolved amid their respective journeys in the sport.

Verstappen made his F1 debut at just 17 years old, becoming the youngest driver to compete in the championship. He quickly proved his talent, winning his first race with Red Bull at 18. Ricciardo, who had been established as the team’s leading driver, faced challenges as Verstappen’s success grew. Tensions peaked during the 2018 Azerbaijan Grand Prix when the two collided on track, marking a pivotal moment in their partnership.

Ricciardo announced his departure from Red Bull mid-season in 2018, subsequently moving to Renault and then McLaren. His time in F1 became less prominent, and he later returned to Red Bull as a reserve driver. In 2023, he filled a race seat at Racing Bulls after Nyck de Vries was released, but Ricciardo’s stint was short-lived, leading to his removal from the grid.

Despite the competitive nature of their careers, Ricciardo has expressed no animosity towards Verstappen. During a recent conference, he remarked, “Seeing Max go on to be a four-time World champion? I lose count. He has won that many now. But four-time World champion, I am proud. I am like, ‘Okay, that was cool. That is a teammate I had, that was someone who I shared a lot of time on track with.'”

Life After Formula 1

Since stepping away from the relentless pace of F1, Ricciardo has embraced a different lifestyle. He has taken time for self-reflection, explaining, “This year has been a bit of self-exploration. I lived this crazy high-speed life for so long, and this year I have sat into a little bit of stillness.” Ricciardo noted that he has enjoyed activities such as hiking and even ventured to Alaska, humorously adding that he did not encounter a grizzly bear during his trip.

The Australian driver has also undergone a noticeable transformation, choosing to grow out his hair and beard. He acknowledged this change, stating, “I haven’t been shaving my face, the beard is my comfort right now.” Ricciardo has emphasized the importance of family and friends during this time, reflecting on how his career has shaped his identity.

He shared insights about the pressures of being a racing driver, admitting, “I have always been driven and that sometimes leads you to being selfish, so I am trying to learn to be a bit more selfless and become a better listener.”

Ricciardo has come to terms with his career trajectory, recognizing that his aspirations to become a world champion were significant yet ultimately unfulfilled. He stated, “I never thought I would have this career. I never thought I would be here – that is the truth. Yes, my dream was to be World champion, and there were years along the way where I genuinely felt like it was going to happen.”

Despite missing the ultimate title, Ricciardo remains content with his journey. “If I were a World champion sitting here today, would it change how I feel, or how I view myself, or anything like that? I don’t think so. Maybe my ego would be big and we don’t want that! I have no regrets,” he concluded.

As both drivers continue their paths, Ricciardo’s reflections offer a glimpse into the life of a former F1 star, navigating the complexities of identity beyond the racetrack while celebrating the achievements of a teammate who has reached remarkable heights.